GFCI Receptacle vs. GFCI Circuit Breaker

Users can be protected from ground fault shocks in two ways: with a GFCI receptacle or a GFCI circuit breaker.

A GFCI receptacle protects the user at the device itself, such as an outlet in a bathroom or kitchen. A GFCI breaker protects all devices connected to the circuit. Making the correct choice requires that you weigh the various advantages and disadvantages of each.

What Is a GFCI Receptacle?

A GFCI receptacle is integrated into an electrical outlet and it typically has a red (or possibly white) reset button on the outlet's faceplate.

If the receptacle detects an electrical overload or imbalance, it trips off the circuit in a fraction of a second, and the small reset button pops, indicating that the electricity is no longer flowing.

GFCI receptacles are generally used instead of standard outlet receptacles to protect a single outlet location.

What Is a GFCI Circuit Breaker?

A GFCI circuit breaker, installed in one of the service panel (breaker box) slots, adds GFCI protection to the entire circuit.

GFCI circuit breakers make more practical sense in situations where all outlets on a circuit require GFCI protection.

GFCI breakers can be expensive, though, so this is not always the more economical option. Plus, it's not always the most DIY-friendly option for homeowners uncomfortable working on circuit breaker panels.

When to Choose a GFCI Receptacle

• Single-point protection: If you only need to protect one device, it's best to use a GFCI receptacle than a GFCI breaker, which protects multiple devices.
• Simple installation: GFCI receptacles are easier to install than GFCI breakers. If you're a DIYer unfamiliar with working on a service panel, installing a receptacle is more straightforward and safer than replacing a circuit breaker.
• Local resetting: When a GFCI receptacle trips, you can reset it locally at the receptacle location rather than going to the circuit breaker panel.
• Cost: A GFCI receptacle costs around $15. So, if money is an issue, a GFCI outlet will be a better choice than a GFCI breaker.

When to Choose a GFCI Circuit Breaker

• Multiple-point protection: If you need GFCI protection in several locations, it makes the most sense to simply install one GFCI breaker to serve all of those locations at once.
• Easier resetting: In some cases, it can be easier to reset a circuit breaker than a GFCI receptacle. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that GFCI receptacles be in readily accessible locations, ensuring easy access for resetting the receptacle if it trips. So, if any GFCI receptacles are difficult to access (such as behind furniture or appliances), it's actually easier to reset a GFCI breaker.
• Economy of size: GFCI receptacles are large and bulky. With standard-size boxes, there may not be enough room to add a GFCI receptacle safely. So, using a GFCI circuit breaker allows you to install slimmer regular outlets in the boxes.
• Electrical code: The local electrical code may have particular GFCI requirements that require the use of a GFCI breaker.